DIRECTOR OF OPWDD - Central Islip, NY

About this role

Description

Position Summary

The Department Director of OPWDD Services provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and regulatory compliance management for all programs under the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) umbrella, including Self-Direction, Fiscal Intermediary (FI) services, Community Habilitation, Respite, and other related supports. This role ensures services are person-centered, fiscally responsible, and aligned with the agency’s mission and OPWDD standards.

Supervises: Program Managers, Supervisors, Fiscal Intermediary staff, Brokers, and other OPWDD program personnel

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management Provide vision, direction, and oversight for all OPWDD-funded programs. Lead and supervise departmental managers, ensuring programs operate efficiently and effectively. Promote a collaborative, team-based culture focused on quality service delivery.

Program Development & Oversight Oversee planning, implementation, and evaluation of OPWDD programs to meet individual needs and regulatory requirements. Lead initiatives to expand services, improve operational workflows, and enhance participant satisfaction. Ensure compliance with OPWDD, Medicaid, and other funding sources’ regulations.

Fiscal & Resource Management Collaborate with Finance to monitor departmental budgets, expenditures, and cost projections. Approve program expenditures in line with agency policies and funding guidelines. Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising service quality.

Compliance & Quality Assurance Ensure all services meet OPWDD, Medicaid, and agency compliance standards. Oversee internal audits, incident reporting, and corrective action plans. Implement and monitor performance metrics for continuous quality improvement.

Stakeholder Engagement Serve as the primary liaison with OPWDD officials, families, and community partners. Represent the agency in professional networks, committees, and advocacy efforts. Communicate program updates and changes to stakeholders in a clear, timely manner.

Qualifications

Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Public Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred). Minimum 5–7 years of progressive leadership experience in OPWDD or developmental disability services. Proven track record managing multi-program operations and diverse teams.

Knowledge & Skills In-depth understanding of OPWDD regulations, HCBS Waiver, Medicaid billing, and Self-Direction services. Strong budget management and data-driven decision-making skills. Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership abilities. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential matters with discretion.

Licenses/Certifications OPWDD-related certifications (e.g., SCIP, CPR/First Aid) preferred.

Core Competencies Regulatory Expertise: Mastery of OPWDD and Medicaid standards. Strategic Planning: Ability to set long-term goals and operational strategies. Leadership: Inspires and motivates staff, fostering a high-performance culture. Problem Solving: Analyzes issues and implements effective solutions. Collaboration: Builds partnerships across departments and with external agencies.

Requirements A Valid Driver's License and Insured Vehicle. PPD (TB test required with proof of results; no more than 1 year old)